Project 24 - Magnet Motor "K-12 JUNO STEM KIT"

What You Can Build Using K-12 JUNO STEM KIT

In the "Magnet Motor" project that uses a reed switch from the K-12 JUNO STEM Kit, children assemble a working electric motor where the motor’s coil is switched on and off by a reed switch activated by magnets attached to the rotor. As the rotor spins, the magnets close the reed switch contacts in sequence, powering the electromagnet coil at just the right time to keep the motor spinning continuously. This clever design demonstrates how magnetic fields can control circuits and produce motion in a simple, hands-on way.

What You Can Learn

• Reed Switch Operation: Kids examine how a reed switch consists of two ferromagnetic contacts sealed in glass that close when a magnetic field approaches, completing a circuit.

• Magnetic Control: Learners understand how magnets on the rotor interact with the reed switch to turn the motor’s electromagnet coil on and off rhythmically.

• Basic Motor Principles: Students observe how alternating electromagnet activation causes repulsion and attraction forces that keep the rotor spinning.

• Circuit Integration: Children practice connecting a battery, coil, reed switch, and magnets, gaining essential building and wiring skills.

Real Life Problem Solving

• Troubleshooting: If the motor stalls or doesn’t spin smoothly, learners check reed switch activation timing, magnet positioning, coil winding, wiring connections, and battery power.

• Device Understanding: This project models the fundamental operation of many real-world electric motors, which use switching to create continuous rotation.

• Design Thinking: Learners experiment with magnet strength, reed switch placement, or coil design to optimize motor performance.

Additional Benefits

• Creativity: Students can personalize the motor frame, decorate magnets, or incorporate their motor into a larger mechanical build.

• Collaboration: The project encourages collaboration and shared problem-solving during assembly and testing.

• Confidence: Successfully building an electromagnet motor with a reed switch deepens STEM confidence and interest.

• Foundation for Future Learning: This project lays groundwork for understanding electromagnetics, electronic switching, robotics, and motor control systems.

Why Magnet Motor with Reed Switch Matters

This project turns abstract concepts of magnetism and electricity into a spinning, tangible motor. The reed switch’s magnetic actuation teaches control and timing in electrical circuits, vital for modern machines. Each revolution reinforces foundational STEM ideas and inspires further experimentation and invention.

With Project 24: Magnet Motor powered by a reed switch, every child experiences the magic of magnets and motors combined to spin science into motion!